I saw a burial with a bugler playing taps;
I turned to my father, “what happened?” I asked.
He clutched my hand and with a quiver in his voice,
he began to explain and his eyes became moist.
“My son,” he said, “this is rather difficult for me;
for an old veteran like myself this is tough to see.
In that coffin lies a genuine patriotic warrior,
an honest-to-God hero, an American soldier.
I appreciate that soldier and the service he gave,
and I honor his sacrifice as he’s laid in his grave.
He was honorable, selfless, courageous, and bold;
please remember him son, as you grow old.
The value of his service, I must explain,
if not remembered, will be lost in vain.
As a nation we’re nothing without soldiers like him;
and failing to remember would be a terrible sin.”
I listened in awe as my father spoke,
it seemed as if his heart were broke.
I suddenly remembered when he went to war,
and when he returned I thought nothing more.
I never asked why he walked with a limp,
and I didn’t care about why he was sick.
I was too busy enjoying the life that I had,
to realize that I had it because of dad.
I finally understood what my dad was about,
and it hurt so bad I cried out loud.
He sacrificed so much so I could be free,
and his battle scars were suffered for me.
It was my father’s spirit that spoke to me that day;
thank God I finally understood what he had to say.
I saluted his coffin as they laid him to rest,
and I thought about the medals pinned on his chest.
That I didn’t honor him sooner, I will always regret;
and I pledged that day to never again forget.
I’m proud that my dad was a patriotic warrior;
I’m honored to be the son of an American soldier.

W-hen the fullness of time had come, Jesus was born behind an Inn in a cave-like stable.
I-n the Inn there was no room for the Son of God, no room for the Saviour of men.
S-tar was shining so bright above the stable for the shepherds to find their way to Him.
E-ven angels proclaimed His birth to those shepherds "Unto you is born this day."
M-anger is where Mary and Joseph first laid him. It was filled with hay.
E-very animal there must have known that their Creator had come that day.
N-o one knew the depth of love God had, to give His Son to dwell among men.
S-ame star guided three kings from the Orient, who studied the stars and heavens.
T-hese wise men from the East came saying "Where is He that is born King"
I-n their hands they brought him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrr.
L-ike these three wise men, wise men still seek him today!
L-ove is the reason that God sent His only Begotton Son into the world to save us.
S-eeking for you and me, yes God was seeking for us because we had left Him.
E-veryone, yes, all we like sheep have gone astray. Everyone to his own way.
E-ach one has to make his on decision to follow Him or not to follow Him.
K-ing, born to be a King. King of the ages. King of the past. King of the future.
H-eaven, He came from Heaven to earth to show us the right way.
I-niquity, the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.
M-elody, He gives us a sweet melody, we sing many songs of praise to Him.
T-ree, A Christmas tree, the love that Jesus had for us, to die on a tree.
O-nly one life and how soon it passes. Only in life can we accept His Love.
D-eliverance, He came from Heaven to preach deliverance to the captives.
A-cknowlege Him and accept Him. Behold now is the accepted time.
Y-ou, Yes, this Christmas Love was for You. Will You accept this love?
For Brian Strands Christmas Love contest.

What will you do when it’s your time to shine?
Do you have all your words written down in your mind?
Have you planned for the day when they call on your name?
To lift up a soul and help hide someone’s shame?
Is it easy for you to just stand up and speak?
Anytime, anywhere – any day of the week?
What about when you’re asked to give your point of view
On the many events that take place in the news?
If you’re asked to speak on the ‘good news’ of Christ
To those who yet walk in the world, full of vice.
Do you have rhyming words or a sweet song to sing?
As you share the news of our Resurrected King?
These questions I ask are to keep us in mind
Of the Great Commission given to all mankind!
That our King returns with Victory in His hand,
And all will bow down with their knees in the sand
Giving glory to God – Who truly loved us all
Even though disobedience caused us to fall.
Yet He gave all He had even Everlasting Life.
He forgave us our sins – He took away our strife.
His command said “go forth in the world, filled with love
And be as wise as serpents – but gentle as doves”.
So what will you do when it’s your time to shine?
When God opens up Heaven and says “This child is Mine?”

Growing up
My father and me
He did the best he could
Because once we were three
Events happened
And then we were two
His rise and demise
As his life withdrew
Looking back, to the memories we had
They never lasted for years
Some great, some sad
For an ill man he did his best
And in me, I have his zest
He never recovered from the loss of his son
To say goodbye to the elder one
He was hospitalised for months and years
On the day he was taken, uncontrollable tears
The years we shared
Fifteen in all
In every one
He helped me grow tall
To appreciate, what life will give
Remember your past, let your future live
He's all around me every day
For on the wind I hear him say
Enjoy your life, live happily
I hope you get to the land of the free
My reply to you Dad
As you look down on me
The Aura around you
The man I hope to be
" Happy Fathers Day to you Dad, I still miss you, your loving son James "
To be read listening to Boston's < A Man i'll never be >
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzOKrXj8Hp4
http://www.thehighlanderspoems.com/me.php

Looking back to memories bright,
I remember she’d teach me wrong from right.
“Clean your plate. There are others who have none.”
“Do your homework, and let me know when you’re done.”
“Look at me when I’m talking to you.”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“Save your money for a rainy day.”
“It’s beautiful outside, so go out and play.”
“Let me show you how to clean and cook.”
“If you’re really bored, you can read a good book.”
“Don’t you know that I was young once, too?”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“Take some time to read this book, son.
I think it’s time you know where they come from.”
“Girls are spice and everything nice.”
“If you’re smart, you’ll take my advice.”
“You don’t have to do as others do.”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“My grandfather gave us all we would need.
When spring rolled around he would plant seed.
He shot game and lived off the land.
He wasn’t afraid to make a stand.
You could learn a few things from him, too.”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“I used to walk a mile to school.
It won’t hurt you to walk a little, too.”
“Do your chores and be nice to your sister.”
“Address adults as Misses or Mister.”
“Do you know that I love you?”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“Why do you want to be in a rock and roll band?”
“Be a leader. Lend a helping hand.”
“How old is she? What is her name?
Do you care for her deeply? Does she feel the same?”
“Where have you been? I was worried about you!”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“How many hours? How much does it pay?
Think of your future. In school you should stay.”
“Do you have food? You’ve lost a lot of weight.”
“Be on time. You shouldn’t be late.”
“Did you get the letter that I sent you?”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“You’re too young to get married. Won’t you wait till later?
Yes, I think she’s nice. No, I don’t hate her.”
“You need a good job. Where will you live?”
“How much do you need? How much can I give?”
“Isn’t life great when love is new?”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“I’m going to be a grandma?!! You must be joking!”
“How’s the job going? Are you still smoking?”
“We’re all fine. How is she?
I was foolish to think she’d replace me.
Tell her that I’m thinking of her, too.”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“You sound funny. Are they all right?
How long was she in labor? Was it a long night?
She’ll be okay. She just needs time to heal.
You’ll be a good father. When was your last meal?
Give her my love, and to the baby, too.”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“Tell her not to fuss. I won’t be a bother.
I remember a few things. You were once a toddler.
The living room is fine. You sleep in your own room.
I’ll get her some groceries. Where does she keep her broom?
It was nice seeing you. I’ll miss you, too.
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“They’re growing like weeds.
I wish you weren’t so far away.”
“Pay attention to your wife . . .
A good husband doesn’t stray.”
“Call me if you need someone to talk to.”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“Get you some stocks, bonds, or an IRA.
If you stuff it under the mattress, that’ll be okay.
You must think of their future . . . and yours and hers, too.
It’ll take planning to see it all through.
Don’t worry about me, son. I’ve planned some, too.”
Yes, Mother . . . I hear you.
“Are you happy, boy? It’s important that you are.
There’s more to life than a career or a new car.”
“I’m proud of you and of who you’ve become.
You’re all that I dreamed of and even more, son.
But tell me the truth. Did I ever get through?
Did you ever listen when I was talking to you?”
Yes, Mother . . . I listened. I even took your advice.
In many of my choices, I didn’t have to think twice.
I haven’t always been as good as I could be.
There were times that I was glad you weren’t there to see.
Of one thing I’m certain . . . you passed a lot on.
You taught me to be caring, happy, and strong.
Your thoughts are with me in all that I do.
Yes, Mother . . . I heard you.

Daddy, were you alive when Jesus was born?
No honey, he was born a long time ago, over 2000 years ago.
Where was he born Daddy?
In Bethlehem, a small town in the desert in a manger,
Whats a manger Daddy?
It's a place where they kept animals to feed them.
You see when Jesus was born the Inn was full, so
they had to get Mary to a warm place to give birth to Jesus.
that was the only place they could go.
Daddy who is Jesus' Daddy?
God is his Father honey?
But who is Joseph?
The Chosen Father, who God chose to raise him, Mary's Husband
I don't understand Daddy!
God wanted a son, he could not have a son without Mary and Joseph's
help. God asked them both if they would help him, without even thinking
they said yes. God gave to them a great gift, God gave them Jesus.
At that moment God gave us all a great gift, He gave us the Son of Man.
The Son of Man Daddy?
Yes honey, you see God is not Man, not one you can touch, Jesus
was, he healed people who were sick, He showed people how to love God
and how God loves them. There is one more important thing
I want to tell you honey.
What's that Daddy? Jesus did a coupla more things I think are
important, there are many of course but two I like.
Go on Daddy!
Jesus taught us how to love without conditions, like the way I love you
and you love me and your Mom and Brother. But how to love everybody
like that. The most important thing is, is that he died because we humans
broke God's laws, which means we sinned. He died so God would
forgive us.
Wow Jesus really did love us didn't he Daddy...?
Yes he did baby, and the really good thing is he still does and always will.
Come on it's time for bed!
Not until I say my prayers Daddy!
How bout we Pray together tonight?
I'd like that Daddy!
So would I baby, so would I .
Jump up on my back and I'll give you piggy back ride!
I love you Daddy!
I love you too baby, I love you too.........
My Christmas wish is you all have Conversations like this with your
kids. Trust me they bring tears of joy!
May God Bless you all this Christmas Season as he has Blessed me.
From Mary, Josh, Shay and myself MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR
With Love.....Taz

Sing Allelujahs
All stars in the midnight sky.
Giving God all praise!
Jesus our Saviour
Wonderful King of All Kings
Son of God Most High.
Son of the morning.
A lily of the valley
Bright and morning star
Fairest of the fair
Mighty warrior, Valient Prince
Glory be to God!

While walking through a hospital one day, a veteran I did see
He was in a wheelchair with both legs missing, and he did it for you and me.
I turned around a corner and down another hall
Only for my eyes to behold a family who has lost it all
A five year old cried out,"Why did daddy have to die?"
The mother held her son closer while she greived and began to cry
The mother of that young Marine, who had fought over in Iraqu
Wandered why her son so brave, didn't survive the enemie's attack
The father of that soldier, hung his head to cry
He was a retired soldier himself, why couldn't he have been the one to die?
His heart broken sister, sits in shock and tries to deny
The death of her older brother, he was killed and don't know why
A few days later, a family, everybody all dressed in black
Went to the funeral of a twenty-five year old who too our bullet in Iraq
The Bible says "thou shalt not kill." and "Love your neighbor" too
Maybe our soldiers aren't doing what's right, but they still take your bullet for you
They sleep in foxholes, and eat in trenches, and do all that they know to do
They rest in the sand with no comforts of home and they take your bullet for you
The restless nights turn into days, you wouldn't believe all they go through
THe rest of us sit at home and gripe, and still they take your bullet for you
The next time you hear a 21 gun salute, don't condemn as others do
The next time the taps are being played, remember, they took that bullet for you.
Thanks, Veterans for your sacrifice.

My Parents Did Their Best To Raise Me
As a child, my parents did their best to raise me.
Teaching me about God, because they loved me!
They taught me God’s ways,.
This was their intention.
They read the Bible,
with an undivided attention.
Each day I awoke. I was glad mom
and dad where there.
Especially when we gathered
around the table in prayer.
The many times we spent together I haven’t forgot.
I’m so thankful for the Christian values taught.
The values helped shape me into
what I am today.
And have helped keep me on “the narrow way.”
I believe many of these values
are being discarded.
Even before many families are being started.
A respect for God’s word seems
to be a thing of the past.
It’s no wonder many relationships don’t last.
God’s principles must be our daily ambition.
His love must be our rock and a TRUE foundation!
We must seek his purpose
and divine way of living.
It’s HIS example that must be our way of giving!
Giving to others kindness and love
that binds us as one.
Through the witness we have in Christ… His son!
May God bless our hearts and
homes in one accord.
As we give our attention
to Jesus Christ our Lord!
By Jim Pemberton 10/01/11

The man with the plastic bug in his head
monopolized my dreams last night
in the place that the horsefly of my dignity
finally surrender to the impresario without a fight.
Seven days and 7 hours transplanted in my memorabilia
reminding the rustiness of the purple child
flatterers danced beneath the clouds of melancholy
and morality spreader the master plan inside my mind.
The disinheritance of my immortality the final day
discouraged my desire to see the forbidden love
restored my will to escape
manipulated the deep of the uncertainty above.
Released from the plastic bug in my head
try to cover my yellow child in the purple sky
laughing,singing,whispering,playing
seven days and seven hours before he dies.

I took my four year old one time to a July fourth parade
We found a place that offered us a little bit of shade
Sitting there close by to us was a white haired older man
His eyes were fixed on something as the parading soon began
My son was fascinated by the old man’s intense stare
And soon we saw he was looking at the flag waving in the air
It was the first thing passing by us as the parade began to start
And the old man struggled to his feet with his cap across his heart
As we stood next to this gentleman my young son asked me why
The older man was shaking and had a tear forming in his eye
Once we all were seated and the parade went on its way
We spoke with the older gentleman and proudly did he say
That he had served in the Marine Corps during World War Two
And he was very proud he’d served the red, white, and the blue
He said he’d lost his brother and his very dearest friend
But it had been an honor to have this country to defend
The older man then said he’d lost his son in Vietnam
And he said I couldn’t tell you just how proud of him I am
I hope that some will think about the sacrifice he made
So that we can all be here to watch this beautiful parade
The old man then put his hand on my son’s tiny head
And he gently ruffled up his hair as quietly he said
My son’s name was James but we always called him Jim
And seeing you here with your Dad it makes me think of him
My son sat very quietly moving next to the old chap
And reached into the bag we’d brought to get his baseball cap
He put the cap upon his head as we watched a marching band
And slowly he reached up and took the old man by the hand
Soon another flag passed by and I was quick to realize
The old man wasn’t the only one with a tear forming in his eyes
My own eyes started misting as I stood there most impressed
As my son stood with a proud marine with his cap across his chest

He was the bard from Stratford, and as a teenager
he helped his father in his trade; he married and had children
and became the most popular and admired play writer
in all England...acting was also his other pleasurable passion.
Curious Queen Elisabeth was one of the thousand spectators,
who came to see him in the Globe theater...she shed tears,
and was stunned by the performance of his timeless plays,
and yet, some of his fellow-poets criticized him for his writings!
I wish I had lived in that Victorian era so intellectual and refined,
and had met him in person and had showed him my ample admiration;
I would have asked him the secret, which made him so legendary and loved...
and he would have whispered it to me, to make me revel in that revelation!
I have read his inspiring works, and tragedies rampantly occur
from " Romeo and Juliet"...the Verona's immortal lovers, through" Hamlet "
whose insanity was undoubtedly caused by the specter of his father;
and why didn't Shakespeare choose less dramatic plays not ending in death?
He wanted to teach us indelible lessons to show us how the human spirit
can be passionate, adamant, loveless, envious, cruel, unfair and treacherous...
to outline all kinds of guilt: from murder to envy so well-expressed with eloquence;
it's no mystery to anyone how he conjured up such plots with grief, madness and wit!
Shakespeare was no ordinary kid, and he played with his siblings on Henley Street,
neighbors saw him trot to his grammar school, later he would make everyone weep;
early in adolescence, did his prodigious mind envision one from a vague thought?
It's no wonder that he is widely read even today...hear his speak, he'll impart worth!
Entered in Amy Green's contest, " Wow Me With Inspiration "

Have confidence that you can be
the best in all you’ll do, my son.
Don’t go out thinking mediocrity
or that’s what you’ll become.
And don’t assume your work is done.
and don’t assume you have it made;
there’s always someone climbing rungs
who can make a better grade.
And never dare an idle hand,
and never chance an idle mind;
change you need to understand
or you will be left far behind.
Don’t break the rules until you’ve followed,
don’t make up rules you can’t abide;
never think your skills are hallowed
and don’t reject advice for pride.
Don’t toe a line you cannot see,
don’t push unless you can be shoved;
don’t cower from adversity
just wrap yourself in an armor of love.

My soul has a hole in it's pocket
And the pennies, they leave a trail
If you say you want my two cents
Then, come on down
And pick up what I've left behind
My mind has a curtain with tattered ends
And the wind just blows on through
If you say you need shelter from the sun
Then, come on down
And rest your weary head
My heart is beating to creepy tune
And the shivers run up my spine
If you say you need a story
Then, come on down
I have got one to tell to you
My song that I'm singing has no end
And the rhythm is like the sea
If you say you got the blues
Then, come on down
This boat will bring you through
My soul has a hole it's pocket
Bad memories, they leave a trail
If you say you need a fresh start
Then, come on down
I've found the path for you

Your Mother and Mine
Tis Every woman
Whomsoever helps
Any children.. anytime
Looks after them
Fixes and gives
them something to eat
Cleans them up...
to smell sweet
helping them to live
and grow..
guiding their ways
Edifying thier lives
Within these earthly days
Your Mother and Mine
Always spending their time
Taking care of any children..
Giving from within their hearts
So Children can go on living
helping with childs needs
Fixing up
their skinned-up knees
helping them
with their broken hearts
Wiping away tears..
helping them cope with fears
Watching them
grow through the years
As there are many women
Within this world.. Care-giving
Whom is Your Mother.. and Mine
Even some have children of their own
Some are Grandmothers.. Aunts..
Teachers, Preachers, Doctors, Nurses
Any Women.. whom gives tender-love
Even women of the neighborhood tis Mothers
All the women whom tend..
to look after any children
whom go out of their way
bringing compassion with smiles
giving many children.. Love everyday
God's Blessings are giving
within the hearts of many women
Whom choose to be.. for many children
even when they have their own..
These women are tis as I see..
God's Blessings.. of Many Mothers
There are many children
Whom seek so many women out
Whom they choose to call.. them their Mother
Whom shows them Love.. Tenderheartedly giving
For I know.. this without a doubt
For many children come to my house
They.. as All Children are.. Blessings
God gives in many ways.. all women Blessings of Children
Your Mother and Mine
Children say this to me all the time
Motherly Love.. is giving by God above
Happy Mother's Day!!!
To All Women..
Even Mother's as Mine whom already gone to Heaven..
Dedicated to You.. Momma..
as You always be.. My Mother
and many.. You had given Love.. Tenderheartedly unto
Tis be.. Your Mother and Mine...
"I Love Momma"

,
Lord thank you for this life,
As I have lived a full life,
It was not always as I would have like,
But I lived it to the best of what I could,
I’m going home; Home to the place I want to be,
I’m going home to Jesus where He waits for me,
I have been a long weary believer,
As I’ve been away to long,
I now know what I’ve been searching for,
As He's been there in me all along,
I’m going home; Home is the place I want to be,
I’m going home to Jesus where He waits for me,
I have been and seen lots of places in life’s journey,
Now I yearn for familiar faces in familiar places,
I hear familiar voices calling me to come home,
I see familiar faces looking at me,
I’m going home; Home is the place I want to be,
I’m going home to Jesus where He waits for me,
My time is near, the hour I know not,
I see Jesus' face across the Heaven’s,
I hear His soft sweet voice calling me home,
I can’t wait for my real life to begin,
I’m going home; Home is the place I want to be,
I’m going home to Jesus where He waits for me.
By; Rev. Samuel and Esta Mack, OMS
Copyright 2011
VISIT US AT: http:paladinnews1.blogspot.com

She should have been Hera, goddess queen of heaven, the sister-wife of
Zeus, king of the gods; she would have caught him one Friday night tipping
Out while she sleeps to visit one of his plumy wives and over 100 relations.
She would have said, “Sit down Zeus; let me inform you about the laws of
Property settlement and child support in heaven with a concrete poem.”
She would have straightened up Aphrodite, goddess of love and lust.
Especially when Aphrodite was caught red-handed making love to
Her son, Ares, the God of war, she probably would have said, “Now look
Here woman, quit messing with my son and creating all this rumblings in
Heaven with the gods.” I could see some Lanturne poems floating
She would have acted as the sister of Demeter, goddess of fertility,
Agriculture, and harvest, a sister of Zeus. Because she would have
Blessed women with children who need them, and also farmers
With great harvest and crops to feed their families and sustain the
People across the land, by waving a haiku poem in her healing hands
She would have screamed as the sister of Hermes, the crooked cattle-rustling
God; son of Zeus and Maia, who stole his brother, Apollo’s cows, then
Lied, and swore before Zeus, their father, “That even if I knew who stole
Apollo’s cattle, I would not even accept a reward for finding the thief.”
She would have gave her crooked brother, and son of Zeus, a flying senryu
She would have been with Athena, the virgin goddess of wisdom, reason, and
Heroic endeavors; the daughter of Zeus, and Titan goddess of wise counsel
Métis, especially when Athena appeared onto Swift-footed demigod,
Achilles, and told him, “Sheathe your sword and defeat Agamemnon, the
Greek king with words of wisdom.” I could see some wise epigram poems
She was probably counseled by Apollo, her brother, god of music, healing, and
Poetry; the son of Zeus and the Titan goddess Leto. Because she has cared
For the sick in hospital emergency rooms, and has also stimulated us for years
With her poetic muse. She has counseled many along the way and has calmed
Many storms with loving charm. “Hail my sister in Christ—Karen O’Leary!”
Happy birthday angel and wishing you many more for years to come!

He loved you too, you know
Loved you like his very own
In away you were
You came into his life as my friend
Through the years you grew to be my brother in arms
Along the way you became the son he never had
He loved you as a friend
He loved you even more as a son
A son he never had
When things began to spiral out of control
You stayed when so many others ran away
You helped when I couldn’t
You meant a great deal to him
You never looked at him differently
Nor did you treat him differently
You stood by his side
When he fell, you stood by his side and mine
You were willing to help me fight his battle for him
You were there from the beginning
You were there until the bitter end
Always remember my friend, my brother
He loved you more than you’ll ever know
____________________________________________________________
Dedicated to close Family friend. He loved my Daddy just as much as I did/do.

Fifty years, boy and man, I’ve been a Sooners fan;
And watched thousands of recruits try to make my Sooners Team.
Often, I’ve enviously wondered what it must be like
To be a touted Sooners recruit, living out his dream.
He’d had a great career through high school;
Made good grades, was a football star, played baseball too.
Coach said college recruiters were watching closely;
So, he tried his very best to make his dream come true.
You see, he’d played on the L’il Sooners as a kid;
Started getting serious about the game when he was only eight
Played with older, bigger boys and practiced hard;
Always told his friends, “To be a Sooner, ya gotta play great”.
Oh yes, his parents raised a football player;
And, even more important, a Sooners fan;
But he wanted more, to be a Sooner,
To feel the glory raining down from the stands.
Now, the Sooners’ Head Coach is in his living room.
“Son, you’ve got talent. We think you fit our scheme.
We’re offering you a scholarship, an opportunity
To be an important member of our great Sooners Team”.
His mother smiles her biggest smile.
His father nods proudly and pats him on the knee.
“Lord knows, son, it’s a dream come true.
Go be the very best Sooner you can be”.
He walks into the locker room,
Not quite sure what to expect;
But sure that to play for the Sooners
He will first have to earn respect.
He looks each man straight in the eye -
Other recruits, trainers, assistants, and every coach.
“Be proud, but respectful”, his mother had said;
Your character, more than your performance, must be above reproach”.
His handshake is firm and he smiles.
“Only one chance for a first impression”, his father had said;
"Always put yourself in positive light, on and off the field.
That’s what it will take to play for the mighty Big Red”.
He meets so many other recruits, each one a high school star.
He’s played against a few and knows they share his dream.
And, to a man, each knows before any chance for Glory,
He first must prove worthy to play for this Sooners Team.
He knows a few will fail to meet the coaches’ expectations.
For some, the scout team will be their fate.
Many will suit up, but rarely play.
Only the very best will ever dare to be great.
Coach says, “If every man learns and executes when called on,
Then this team, we Sooners, will win a lot of games;
But, win or lose, if you play hard and give your very best,
You’ll never have to hang your heads in shame”.
“But gentlemen, with or without you, this team will win.
Every season, the Sooners strive to win it All.
So, listen, work hard, and prepare yourselves. Each game is war...
And you must be ready when Victory calls”.
Through grueling practices, he finds himself.
As he walks to class, his closest friends are aches and pains;
But, just the other day, Coach helped him up, smiled, and patted his helmet.
“You’re doin’ fine, son. Keep pushin’. Remember, no pain, no gain”.
He sees his name on the "open scrimmage" roster for the very first time.
It’s a moment he’ll never forget, another milestone in his dream.
He calls his Mom and Dad, knowing they’ll tell his family and his friends.
He hopes they’ll actually see him play, proof he’s made the Team.
As he suits up for the last pre-season open scrimmage,
He wonders if the coaches would really let a freshman play at all;
But Coach puts him in for eight plays against the first team;
He makes two great open-field tackles and intercepts the ball.
He barely hears the roar of the crowd, as the whole defense “gives him five”.
He’s so excited, he forgets to ask if he can keep that ball.
Fans are buzzing, “Did you see that hit”!? “Who is that kid”!?
“Will he red shirt or will Coach let him play this fall”?
He sees his name in the Sunday paper, hears it on local sports.
He’s happy, but he doesn’t let it go to his head.
He keeps his focus and uses it as motivation.
After all, he wants to start one day for the mighty Big Red.
Yes, we’ll hear more of this young recruit.
Perhaps, one day he’ll be the hero of the game.
A seasoned veteran, maybe All Conference or even All American,
Who’s tasted Victory many times and helped glorify the Sooners’ name.
Oh yes, there have been so many who’ve aspired;
But many fewer who’ve actually made our Sooners Team.
They are our heroes, each and every one;
For it’s through their accomplishments, we fans can live the dream.
Billy Vessels, Steve Owens, Billy Sims, and Jason White,
The Selmons, Little Joe, the Boz, Josh Heupel, and “Q”
They, and so many others, were once touted Sooners recruits;
Who set a higher mark and built the Tradition that is OU.
So, c’mon! c’mon! all you great young football players!
Dedicate your talents to OU’s Team and OU’s Fans.
Make Oklahoma’s Owen Field your Field of Dreams,
And feel the Glory raining down from the stands.

The Family That God Gave to Me
I think about the family,
that God gave to me...
And think about where
they'll spend eternity!
I think about the good times,
that we've had.
And the trials we've faced...
Both good and bad!
God helped us to overcome
adversity together!
And proved his faithfulness...
Today and forever!
He showed us the Godly path,
that we should follow...
And promised to be with us!
Today and tomorrow!
He's proven how
much he loves us!
And how much that he
cares for us!
Thank you my lord,
for all you do!
Where would we be?
If not for you?
You've proven yourself
over and over again!
Thank you so much,
for being our friend!
By Jim Pemberton

Sometimes I am happy, sometimes I am sad.
Sometime I sing, sometimes I stammer
Sometimes I dance on the music of my soul, Sometimes I dance on the fingers of
one single person
Sometimes I expect so much from others; sometime I myself can’t meet my own
expectations.
Sometime I make fun of others and feel bad later, sometimes life makes fun of me
and I smile
Sometime I win and sometimes I lose, sometimes I don’t even understand whether I
won or lost.
Sometimes I laugh as if whole world is with me,
Sometimes I cry as if I am alone wandering in a strange land
Sometimes I give up so easily
Sometimes I work so hard that no one can stop me to achieve what I want
Sometimes I am dynamic person, who wants to change the world,
And sometimes I am a kid who expects anyone to embrace him tightly.
Sometimes I feel happy about the achievement of my enemy
Sometime I feel dejected with my own success.
Sometimes I help others and show them the right path
Sometimes I feel totally helpless and don’t know where to go
Sometimes I ask god to please give my past back
Sometimes I pray to show me the way forward
Life is composed of SOMETIMES and I just flow with that.
U admit or not but you are also sailing on the same boat.
So join me and enjoy it EVERYTIME as SOMETIMES life is very short!

~A Son Asked~
How can i give when i have nothing?
Because nobody has nothing you have
everything but did not know
you had everything.
How will i know if i am in love?
Everything you do is richer and
fuller when love is there only when
you fall in love when you desire with
passion when you miss the flame in
her eyes when you envy the ground
she walks on when you leave her and
regret doing so when your dream is
all about her wanting her to be next to
you now this moment this second that
is called a dream come true! Love.
Is living a dream?
Only when you wake up in the morning
full of love stay in love the whole day
no matter what look at the twilight
smelling the perfume from your balcony
having a reason to get dressed to go out
full of happiness energy plan an aim
with a goal & success this is when you
start living it becomes a dream come
true.
Is forgiving a dream?
Only when you regret if anybody was hurt
if you stop judging & being resentful and
you can sleep at night with no remorse it
becomes a beautiful dream come true.
Is being human a dream?
Only when you will feel other peoples pain
when you will open your heart and even
shed a tear that is being human it becomes
a dream come.
Is sharing a dream?
Only when you start sharing even a piece
of bread give unconditionally listen to the
voice & respond feel the beating of a heart
be everywhere it becomes a dream.
Is friendship a dream?
Only when you become friends for
life it becomes a dream come true.
Is being compassionate a dream?
Only when you love life when you
feel you can climb on top of the
mountain and envy the beyond
& feel compassionate it becomes
a dream.
Is being intelligent a dream?
Only when you use your brain towards
the right directions right decisions
be patient tolerant accept change
when needed proud of who you are
persistent succeed over the years it
will become a dream come true.
Is having a mother a dream?
I can only think about this reply:
Since birth until the end a mother
is the shadow of each child its an
everlasting love this is a dream
come true.
How will you know if you are a writer:
Only when you never stop writing.
Therese Bacha
Contest for PD About inspirational poems. 6/3/2013
Win as Honorable Mention.

My Son Moon and Star ~
Approaching the celebration of his Birth
cherishing the gift I received
within weeks of conception I knew
something amazing was in Creation ~
the Stars held a party
sending me with one of their own
Gazing at 3 shooting stars twinkling crossing the sky
It was magic It was destiny taking its flight.
In love with an October full moon
drawing and painting I liked
thinking of Vincent Van Gogh ~
caught in a loss of time
Hours going by as choosing my color
a wittness to three falling stars
A clear night sky sparkle's
A once Famous Star was sent
inspiring the tiny child inside ~
Never a doubt in my mind at all
child bearing was worth any pain received
yours will be in a pursuit of a dream ~
one to cherish and hold
My Son was born the following August ~
working on the set of Grimm 3rd season this year
as the set of Leverage for 3 years .
Has done a Indie movie here
In Paris it was seen and honored
coming soon filmed in Portland ~
"The House of Last Things "
awaiting the credits , you will see
1st Assistant Director ~ production assistant
My Young Lion Mans dream ~
A proud mom I watch every show and the credits
as foretold in a whisper to me 25 years ago
My Son & Moon and Star
A name you will all know ~
Happy Birthday to my creative Son
you will exist in my heart forever~
and thereafter
Mom

Life is full of many important decisions my son
Each decision is a step closer to your future
Every step could lead in many directions, as a man, you must choose one
Do not decide your path on others convictions, examine your own beliefs first
There is nothing worst than betraying ones self; consequences are grave, believe son, it hurts
Walk the path that you choose; sometimes the path gets a little rough and very steep
Be mindful and learn from all setbacks, this builds character; for all our actions we must reap
Stay focused on your prize, remain smart and be aggressive in your endeavors
Remain humble but celebrate your accomplishments; those memories will last forever
Continue to set and achieve goals; do not become content with the present
Contention precipitates laziness, your hunger is subdued and eventually severed
Become a strong, positive, productive and intellectual man
Set the example for your children; this will be a difficult task but do the best you can
Mistakes are common in life son; be responsible and rectify each and every situation
Lord willing, I am preempting one, by maintaining father and son communication

Who are you to dream of chains
And yet proclaim of victory
How do you lie in chains
And yet stand in liberty
When do you pay a debt
That must be paid
What makes you forgive a debt
That must be forgave
In a time of hostility
With the trembles of an oncoming war
You held it in and did not cry
As long before
Your face remained
Lifted toward the sky
Your fire within made you an enemy
Yet a much needed ally
Your words gave peace to those deeply wounded
By the treacheries of man
Your joy gave hope a new mission
Thus hope called love again
Love answered
And summoned faith to come
Faith remembered your prayer
And gave birth to freedom